Let battle commence

I’ve heard of local battle of the bands before, but one that lasts a whole year?

It’s the moshpit-loving brainchild of brothers Jon and Dave Nash, otherwise known as Bukandskit Promotions.

“Since the first one we did in Maidenhead five years ago, it has grown into a bit of a local institution,” says Jon.

“We had more than 100 bands apply to enter each year from all round the UK – but we keep it strictly Reading and surrounding areas.”

And with 64 bands confirmed for this year, the amount of heats will take them up to Christmas. The winning band will sure get a yuletide treat with a £1,000 first prize up for grabs.

The popularity of the contest, sponsored by the Evening Post, is testament to Jon and Dave’s dedication to supporting the local music scene.

“We’ve been putting on gigs in Reading, Maidenhead and Slough now for five years roughly,” says Jon.

“The BOTB is great for Reading’s local scene as we’ve had some awesome bands play in it over the past years that have gone to good things – Exit Ten, Sylosis, Malefice, Viatrophy, Kill The Arcade to name a few.”

Needless to say this particular battle (Friday, April 4 at the Face Bar) is booked up, though the Bukandskit boys welcome any bands to contact them via MySpace at www.myspace.com/bukandskitpromotions for any other opportunities.

In the meantime you can come along and support the bands who are in the first round.